Kazakhstan votes in parliamentary election

Key Points:

• Kazakhstan held a parliamentary election on Sunday, expected to solidify President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev's control, with the pro-presidential Adilet party predicted to win a dominant majority in the new single-chamber parliament, the Kurultai.
• The election follows a constitutional overhaul initiated by Tokayev, merging the two parliamentary chambers and granting the president increased powers, including appointing key officials and reestablishing the vice presidency.
• Economic challenges, including 10.2% inflation and tax hikes, have heightened public discontent, raising concerns about potential unrest similar to the violent protests in January 2022, which Tokayev aims to prevent by consolidating power.
• The vote occurred amid intensified crackdowns on media freedom, with independent journalists facing criminal charges and cyberattacks; notable cases include journalist Lukpan Akhmedyarov, who faces up to seven years in prison for allegedly spreading false information.
• Observers note widespread promotion of the pro-government Adilet party across major cities, suggesting a predetermined election outcome favoring Tokayev’s administration.